BALTIMORE, MD – Fayetteville State University is headed to the CIAA Semifinals. The Broncos delivered a wire‑to‑wire performance inside CFG Bank Arena, defeating Virginia Union 56–49 on Wednesday evening to move into the final four of the 2026 Food Lion CIAA Women's Basketball Tournament.
FSU (20–4, 13–3 CIAA) led for nearly the entire game—39 minutes and 2 seconds—and built a lead as large as 19 points. Fayetteville State's defensive presence, relentless rebounding, and timely perimeter shooting carried them past a surging Virginia Union squad (17–9, 11–7 CIAA) that fought until the final possession. First Team All‑CIAA guard Talia Trotter was also named the Food Lion Player of the Game following her standout performance.
Fayetteville State opened the game locked‑in on both ends, storming out to a 22–12 first‑quarter lead. The Broncos dominated the offensive glass early, producing 10 first‑half second‑chance points and holding Virginia Union to 16% shooting in the second quarter.
At halftime, FSU led 35–19 behind strong contributions from its guard play and high‑energy bench.
Virginia Union (17–9, 11–7 CIAA) made several pushes in the third and fourth quarters, fueled largely by Maya Robinson's game‑high 21 points. But each time the Panthers gained momentum, the Broncos delivered a critical response — whether from the three‑point line, in transition, or at the rim.
FSU's 27 bench points, 41–30 rebounding advantage, and 7 total blocks played a major role in the win. The Broncos held VUU to just 27.8% from three and forced 18 turnovers, converting them into 17 points.
A balanced Broncos roster provided production across the floor. Nevaeh Colon led FSU with 10 points, including two threes and a 4-of-5 effort at the free‑throw line. Alivia Evans added nine points and three rebounds, while Talia Trotter delivered a well-rounded performance with eight points, six rebounds, five assists, and three steals, earning Food Lion Player of the Game honors. Amina Miles anchored the interior with six points, eight rebounds, and five blocks, providing a dominant defensive presence all night. Additional support came from Jashontae Harris, who knocked down two threes and added two steals; Samiyah Barker, who scored five points including a clutch fourth‑quarter three; and Kelis Carmon, who contributed four points and five rebounds. Together, the Broncos earned 27 bench points, recorded 41 total rebounds, and registered seven blocks—a performance that proved too overwhelming for the Panthers.
Fayetteville State finished the night shooting 32.1% from three, 76.5% at the free‑throw line, and converting 17 points off turnovers. The Broncos' ability to control pace and defend without fouling—just 12 team fouls—allowed them to manage VUU's late scoring push and close out the quarterfinal win in Baltimore.
With the victory, the Broncos advance to the CIAA Tournament Semifinals, where they will face Bowie State (No. 1 North). The semifinal matchup is scheduled for Friday, February 27 at 6:00 PM at CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore and will be streamed live on ESPN+.
Fayetteville State now stands one win away from returning to Championship Saturday as they continue their pursuit of the CIAA title.
